KARACHI:
More than 60% of the Pakistani population is under the age of 30 making Pakistan the 5th largest young country in the world. Countries with younger populations are more likely to experience high growth and development rates. But the Pakistani youth is faced with myriad challenges. From a poor education system to few unemployment opportunities, the youth are unable to develop their knowledge and skills and showcase their potential.
The Covid pandemic followed by the economic meltdown has aggravated issues for fresh graduates and young adults. Many have been left jobless as industries have either closed or resorted to downsizing. There is a mismatch between the skillset of employees and the skills required by employers due to the absence of industry-academia linkages. This has compelled many youngsters to move abroad in search of better prospects. Others who cannot afford this have grown frustrated and depressed. They resort to suicide or illegal activities and crimes to escape their misery. Constant political instability and growing security threats have further disillusioned many. The youth in rural areas particularly find it more difficult to navigate their education and careers due to a lack of exposure and mobility.
The government must acknowledge the potential the youth have to innovate and put the country on a progressive trajectory. Besides reforming the education system and improving access to education for everyone, the government must introduce training programmes and apprenticeships for the youth to enhance their skills. Public and private organisations must be urged to work with the Higher Education Commission and universities to improve students’ employability. The government must also invest in new industries to allow the youth to benefit from a range of opportunities.
Muhammad Shahbaz
Dera Ghazi Khan
Published in The Express Tribune, March 26th, 2023.
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